NoPa now has its very own cocktail bar in a gorgeous, wood-paneled space with tons of seating and an atrium up front for when it's nice out (though there are heaters for cooler weather, too). The drinks all come in beautiful barware, though we recommend sticking to the classics instead of some of the more complicated menu creations.

The Mill is a coffee shop workhorse, but there are tables to snag both inside and out on the parklet, so you can make it work for you. Get some $4 toast and a coffee, then talk about how ridiculous this toast trend is and you're set.

Everyone loves the pizzas at Ragazza, which has been an Italian neighborhood standby since 2011. Splits some pies and a few bottles of wine and reach second date nirvana — just make sure you go later in the evening after the kiddies have cleared out, and arrive earlier than your date to wait for a table, since there are no reservations.

Ijji has quietly become one of the best spots for sushi in the city, with friendly chefs and a lighthearted, approachable atmosphere, despite a serious focus on the fish. The attention to detail and mouthwatering bites — and $200 to $300 per couple price tag for omakase, depending how baller you go — make this a definite special occasion restaurant, so make it count for when you're ready for this next-level celebration.

Ten years in, Bar Crudo is still the perfect seafood spot. Reserve a table downstairs, where there's more light and you have viewing access to the open kitchen. For a super casual date, happy hour is always a popular draw, too, when there are dollar oysters and more discounted food and drink.

There are a lot of nooks to tuck into at The Page, a cash-only dive on Divis. Pick one, order a whiskey on the rocks for strength, and get it over with.